How can I make my guinea pigs get along?

Question

My guinea pig fathered three pups four months ago. I took one of the male pups and he and my guinea have been getting along well, weird as that is. But recently, my older guinea(the father) has been overly aggressive at feeding time and when I go to pet them and play with them. I dont want the pup to be hurt, but I dont want to have to separate them. Help!

Answer 1

Do not use vicks on guinea pigs. It will do way more harm than good. A buddy bath might help. Bathe them together and completely clean everything in the cage so it doesn't smell like dad. There is no need to separate them unless there is bloodshed or dad is preventing the little one from eating. They will establish dominance on their own. Also, how big is your cage? If it's store bought it's probably too small for 2 pigs. You should try making your own. It's cheaper and you can make them way bigger. Go to www.cavycompendium.com

EDIT: Neutering guinea pigs will not change their behaviour. Do not separate them unless one is seriously hurt. Let them work it out.

Answer 2

i had the same problem with my guinea pigs when i first got them. as i got one of my guinea pigs the day before the other they became quite terratorial. the local vets advised me to put a little bit of vicks vapour rub on their noses for a couple of days and give their cage extra attention whem your cleaning it. this should mean they cant pick up each others scent so easily and hopefully avoid the aggressiveness. ensure their is plenty of space around the feeding bowl too so neither feels so threatened.

Answer 3

The father seems to be getting a bit territorial, if you get him neutered, it should help. Other wise you need to keep them apart. If the agression is only at feeding time, maybe you should feed them separately.

Answer 4

put dad and pup in a cage with no one else so he learns to be gentle

Answer 5

Try counseling!